In the Gospel narratives, Jesus often used parables to illustrate his teaching. As figurative language, they are used to convey deeper truths. Parables typically employ everyday situations and characters, prompting us to reflect on their relevance to our lives. As we approach Christmas, I would like to reflect today on the parable of Ten Virgins (though not today’s Gospel) which Jesus uses to illustrate preparedness for the Kingdom of heaven. Thus, Jesus’ narration takes us to the context of celebration, of joy. Let us see how the story unfolds and what it teaches us.
Jesus describes ten virgins invited to meet a bridegroom. But why 10 Virgins and not less nor more? The number ten, significant in the first covenant, symbolizes completeness and a period of testing, as seen in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) and the “ten days” of persecution in Revelation 2:10. Thus, the ten virgins metaphorically represent humanity’s invitation to prepare for Christ’s return, with their lamps signifying readiness for a possibly lengthy wait. What does the parable say about their preparedness for this great event?
The Narrative Divides the Virgins into Two Groups
Five are wise, and five are foolish. The distinction lies in their preparedness; the foolish did not bring extra oil, focusing only on immediate realities, while the wise brought extra oil, symbolizing foresight, and diligence. In the Old Testament, oil was used for anointing kings, setting them apart for God’s mission. It was the case for Saul’s anointing by Samuel; it was also the case for David and Solomon. Similarly, we are anointed in baptism and confirmation, set aside for a divine purpose. In this context, the extra oil represents wisdom and spiritual nourishment, essential for maintaining our inner flame even in challenging times, moments of spiritual tiredness, discouragements.
This Parable Highlights Human Frailty and the Necessity of Spiritual Vigilance
The parable says that “Since the bridegroom was long delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep!” It is vital to note this reality. By underlining this collective drowsiness, the parable demonstrates our propensity to become spiritually lethargic due to various life challenges: spiritual dryness, desolation, unresolved guilt, and wounds that trouble our soul, exhaustion, worldly distractions, health problems, and many other reasons. This acknowledgment encourages us to remain vigilant in our faith, despite occasional drifts from spiritual and religious commitments.
Faced With These Challenges, We Need Preparation and Readiness
The difference between the wise and foolish virgins lies in their preparedness, emphasized by their readiness with extra oil. This readiness is not just about being prepared for an unspecified time but signifies the importance of spiritual vigilance in our Christian lives, cultivated through prayer and good deeds.
The Parable Also Stresses the Interplay of Grace and Personal Responsibility
While God’s grace invites the entire humanity to salvation, our response necessitates personal responsibility. The foolish virgins’ realization of their unpreparedness and the subsequent closing of the door when they go to buy oil serves as a powerful reminder of our personal spiritual journey. While we can gain inspiration, guidance, and help from others, the oil of wisdom and faith is not transferable; it cannot be shared with others. It must be nurtured through personal faith experiences, prayers, reflections, and acts of charity. Maintaining our faith’s light requires continual spiritual exercises and regular contact with the Word of God.
Jesus’ parable concludes with an exhortation to vigilance and the importance of possessing extra oil of divine wisdom and faith. This message urges us to always seek divine wisdom and keep our inner flame alive, ensuring readiness for Christ’s coming and participation in God’s eternal banquet of love. May the teachings of Jesus in this parable be a lamp guiding us in our daily lives in this Advent towards the celebration of Christmas.
